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OCEAN - Cruise Director
Part-Time Cruise Director – Ocean Vessels
About Viking
Viking was founded in 1997 and provides destination-focused voyages across oceans, rivers, and lakes worldwide. Designed for experienced travelers with interests in science, history, culture, and cuisine, Viking’s Chairman Torstein Hagen famously describes our voyages as experiences for The Thinking Person®
We’ve earned over 250 industry awards, including #1 for Rivers, Oceans and Expeditions by Condé Nast Traveler, as well as top-ranking honors from Travel + Leisure—achievements no other cruise line has matched with both publications simultaneously.
Role Overview
As part of our Entertainment Team on our Ocean Vessels, the Cruise Director is the public face of the ship—responsible for crafting exciting events and culturally immersive programs tailored to Viking’s discerning guests.
Reports directly to: Hotel General Manager
Your Responsibilities
Leading the Entertainment Team
- Coach and manage all staff, including:
- Assistant Cruise Director
- Broadcast Manager
- Stage Manager
- Monitor performance and ensure alignment with Viking’s brand standards
Curating Guest Experiences
- Plan, host, and MC guest events including:
- Onboard presentations via PA system
- Safety announcements
- Port Talks (collaborating with the Shore Experience Manager in the theatre)
- Stage and host performances, including:
- A 45–50 minute Variety Show (involving the entire Entertainment Department)
- 45–60 minute Stage Performances aligned with the Viking brand
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Ensuring Compliance & Excellence
- Contribute to Entertainment KPIs (quality & financial)
- Adhere to all safety, security, and public health policies
- Participate in mandatory training sessions, including:
- Onboard safety procedures
- Fire prevention
- Evacuation drills
Why Join Viking?
Elevate Your Career
- Paid training program in premium hospitality services
- On-the-job coaching for rapid advancement
- Lifetime access to a global network of hospitality professionals
- Internal transfer opportunities across our fleet (River, Ocean, Expedition ships)
Life on Board
✔ Fully complimentary:
- Lodging
- Meals
- Unlimited Wi-Fi
- Uniforms & laundry ✔ Viking covers travel costs to/from the ship ✔ Exclusive crew amenities:
- Dedicated deck & recreational spaces
- Access to guest fitness centre during certain hours
Employee Benefits
✔ Referral bonuses ✔ Loyalty incentives ✔ No tax deductions
Your Profile
Essential Experience
- Minimum 4–5 years in entertainment or a similar role within:
- Upscale hotels
- Resorts
- Cruise ships (Shipboard experience is mandatory)
- Fluent in English with:
- Strong oral and written communication
- Proof of confident, sociable manner for guest interactions
- Stage presence suitable for performances & PA announcements
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Personal & Professional Attributes
- Passion for entertaining (preferably as a vocalist)
- Guest-focused, service-oriented personality with:
- Professional appearance & impeccable hygiene standards
- Deep understanding of Public Health Policies
- Leadership strengths:
- Team builder with exceptional work ethics
- Organizational & motivational skills
- Ability to coach diverse, multi-cultural teams
- Resilience & problem-solving in high-pressure environments
Technical Proficiencies
- Experience leading multicultural teams
- Proactive attitude with stress resilience
- Preferred: Strong administrative skills; proficiency in:
- PC-based databases
- Spreadsheets
- Word processing
Application & Important Notes
Appearance Standards
- Viking adheres to professional image guidelines, including:
- Visible tattoos are prohibited.
- Exceptions may apply on an individual basis (no guarantee).
- Concealed tattoos (with makeup, sleeves, etc.) are considered visible—excluding company-issued uniform.
- Visible tattoos are prohibited.
- Any job offer is contingent upon passing mandatory medical examinations.
Data Privacy
As part of the recruitment process, Viking collects and processes candidate data. For full transparency, view our privacy notice on the careers page.
For more information, contact our Recruiting Team.
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